Display device

Abstract

A display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a display module; and a hinge unit disposed on a rear surface of the display module and configured to deform the display module to a planar state or a curved state, in which the hinge unit may include at least one hinge frame and at least one pair of stoppers disposed outside the at least one hinge frame, and in which the stoppers are disposed on the rear surface of the display module. A slit having a semicircular shape may be provided inside one side of the stopper, and a fixing portion surrounded by the slit may move upward or downward to maintain the display module in a planar state or a curved state, thereby stably maintaining curvature while suppressing noise and wear of a component caused by repeated bending.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a bendable display device. Background Art

[0002] Generally, examples of flat panel display devices include liquid crystal display devices, plasma display devices, field emission display devices, and light-emitting display devices. Liquid crystal display devices and light-emitting display devices have attracted much attention because they have advantages in large-scale production technology, easy operation, and high image quality.

[0003] Recently, there is a particular need for research and development in technical aspects of flat panel display devices and research and development in product designs that make products more attractive to customers. Therefore, the demand for curved display devices having a curvature is gradually increasing.

[0004] In particular, recently, the size of the panel has gradually become larger. Therefore, an innovative curvature variable display device having a slimness required by consumers is being developed. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a display device that allows a user to arbitrarily change the curvature between a flat display mode and a curved display mode.

[0006] Another object to be achieved by the present disclosure is to provide a display device capable of stably maintaining curvature in a curved display mode.

[0007] The objects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above objects, and other objects not mentioned above may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a display device, comprising: a display module; and a hinge unit, which is disposed on a rear surface of the display module and is configured to deform the display module into a planar state or a curved state, wherein the hinge unit may include at least one hinge frame and at least one pair of stoppers disposed outside the at least one hinge frame, and wherein a slit having a semicircular shape may be disposed inside one side of the stopper, and a fixed portion surrounded by the slit may be moved upward or downward to maintain the display module in a planar state or a curved state.

[0009] Additional details of example implementations are included in the detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[0010] The present disclosure may provide a display device capable of allowing a user to arbitrarily change the curvature between a flat display mode and a curved display mode.

[0011] The present disclosure may provide a display device capable of stably maintaining curvature while suppressing noise and wear of constituent components caused by repeated bending.

[0012] According to the present disclosure, the protruding structure, the display cover, the stopper, and the third hinge frame can be integrated as a unified material. Therefore, the component materials can be simplified and unified.

[0013] The effects according to the present disclosure are not limited to the above-exemplified contents, and more various effects are included in this specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The above and other aspects, features and other advantages of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2 It is schematically shown Figure 1 The block diagram of the display module in FIG.

[0017] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a display device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 4 is a rear view showing a display device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A three-dimensional diagram of a hinge unit in FIG.

[0020] Figure 6 is a diagram exemplarily illustrating free stop bending performed by a hinge unit;

[0021] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of the first hinge portion;

[0022] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram of a portion of a cross section of a first hinge portion;

[0023] 9A to 9C yes Figure 4 An enlarged view of part A in FIG.

[0024] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C yes Figure 4 An enlarged stereogram of part A in FIG.

[0025] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C is shown when viewed from the side Figure 4A diagram of part A in FIG.

[0026] Fig. 12A yes Fig. 9C An enlarged view of part B in FIG.

[0027] Fig. 12B It is shown along Fig. 12A A diagram of a cross section taken along line CC' in FIG.

[0028] Fig.13A yes Fig. 9C An enlarged view of part B in FIG.

[0029] Fig. 13B It is shown along Fig.13A A diagram of a cross section taken along line D-D' in FIG.

[0030] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B is a diagram showing simulation results, which shows an example of equivalent stress of a comparative example;

[0031] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B is a diagram showing simulation results, which shows an example of equivalent stress of an embodiment;

[0032] Fig.16 is a rear view showing a display device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Fig.17 is a rear view showing a display device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Fig.18A and Fig.18B is a rear view showing a part of the rear surface of the display device of the third embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0035] Fig.19A and Fig.19B : is a perspective view showing a part of the rear surface of the display device according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] By referring to the following and attached Figure 1 With the exemplary embodiments described in detail, the advantages and features of the present disclosure and the methods for achieving these advantages and features will be clear. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, but will be implemented in various forms. The exemplary embodiments are provided only as examples so that those skilled in the art can fully understand the disclosure of the present disclosure and the scope of the present disclosure.

[0037] The shapes, sizes, ratios, angles, quantities, etc. shown in the accompanying drawings for describing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are merely examples, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Throughout the specification, similar reference numerals generally represent similar elements. In addition, in the following description of the present disclosure, detailed descriptions of known related technologies may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the subject matter of the present disclosure. Terms such as "including", "having" and "consisting of..." used herein are generally intended to allow the addition of other components unless these terms are used together with the term "only". Unless otherwise expressly stated, any singular reference may include plural numbers.

[0038] Even if not explicitly stated, the components are interpreted as including the ordinary error range.

[0039] When terms such as “on,” “above,” “below,” and “beside” are used to describe the positional relationship between two parts, unless these terms are used together with the terms “immediately next to” or “directly,” one or more parts may be positioned between the two parts.

[0040] When an element or a layer is referred to as being “on” another element or layer, the other layer or element may be directly interposed on the other element or between them.

[0041] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components. Therefore, within the technical concept of the present disclosure, the first component to be mentioned below may be the second component.

[0042] Like reference numbers generally refer to like elements throughout this specification.

[0043] The sizes and thicknesses of various components shown in the drawings are shown for convenience of description, and the present disclosure is not limited to the sizes and thicknesses of the components shown.

[0044] The features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be partially or completely adhered to or combined with each other and may be technically interlocked and operated in various ways, and these embodiments may be performed independently or in association with each other.

[0045] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Reference Figure 1 For example, the display device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a tuner portion 101 , a demodulation portion 102 , a storage portion 103 , an external device interface portion 104 , a network interface portion 105 , a user input interface portion 106 , and a control unit 107 .

[0048] In addition, the display device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display module 110 , a display deformation driving part 120 , an audio output part 108 , and a power supply part 109 .

[0049] In addition, the display device 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a 3D viewing device 130. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In some cases, the 3D viewing device 130 may not be included.

[0050] The tuner unit 101 may slide a radio frequency (RF) broadcast signal corresponding to a channel selected by a user or all pre-stored channels from an RF broadcast signal received through an antenna. In addition, the tuner unit may convert the selected RF broadcast signal into an intermediate frequency signal, a baseband image or voice signal.

[0051] For example, when the selected RF broadcast signal is a digital broadcast signal, the selected RF broadcast signal may be converted into a digital IF signal (DIF). When the selected RF broadcast signal is an analog broadcast signal, the selected RF broadcast signal may be converted into an analog baseband image or voice signal (CVBS / SIF). That is, the tuner section 101 may process a digital broadcast signal or an analog broadcast signal. The analog baseband image or voice signal (CVBS / SIF) output from the tuner section 101 may be directly input to the control unit 107.

[0052] In addition, the tuner part 101 may receive an RF broadcast signal of a single carrier according to an Advanced Television Committee (ATSC) method, or receive RF broadcast signals of a plurality of carriers according to a Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) method.

[0053] The demodulation section 102 may receive the digital IF signal (DIF) converted by the tuner section 101 and perform a demodulation operation.

[0054] For example, in the case where the digital IF signal output from the tuner section 101 is of ATSC type, the demodulation section 102 performs 8-Vestigal Side Band (8-VSB) demodulation. In addition, the demodulation section 102 may also perform channel decryption.

[0055] In addition, for example, in the case where the digital IF signal output from the tuner section 101 is of DVB type, the demodulation section 102 may perform coded orthogonal frequency division modulation (COFDMA). In addition, the demodulation section 102 may also perform channel decryption.

[0056] In addition, the demodulation part 102 may output a stream signal (TS) after performing demodulation and channel decryption.

[0057] In addition, the demodulation section 102 may be provided separately as an ATSC type demodulation section and a DVB type demodulation section. For example, an ATSC demodulation section and a DVB demodulation section may be provided.

[0058] The stream signal output from the demodulation section 102 may be input to the control unit 107 .

[0059] After the control unit 107 performs demultiplexing, image / voice signal processing, etc., the control unit 107 may output an image to the display module 110 and output a voice to the audio output part 108 .

[0060] The external device interface part 104 may connect an external device and the display device 100. To this end, the external device interface part 104 may include an A / V input / output part (not shown) or a wireless communication part (not shown).

[0061] The external device interface part 104 may be connected to an external device in a wired / wireless manner, such as a digital versatile disk (DVD), a Blu-ray, a game device, a camera, a camcorder, a computer, etc. For example, the external device interface part 104 may transmit an image, voice, or data signal input from the outside through the connected external device to the control unit 107 of the display device 100.

[0062] In addition, the image, voice or data signal processed by the control unit 107 can be output to the connected external device. To this end, the external device interface section 104 may include an A / V input / output section or a wireless communication section.

[0063] The external device interface part 104 may transmit and receive data to and from the 3D viewing device 130 .

[0064] The network interface unit 105 may provide an interface for connecting the display device 100 to a wired / wireless network including the Internet. The network interface unit 105 may be equipped with an Ethernet terminal, etc., to connect to a wired network. The network interface unit 105 may use wireless LAN (WLAN), wireless broadband (Wibro), world interoperability for microwave access (Wimax), and high-speed downlink packet access (HSDPA) communication standards to connect to a wireless network.

[0065] In addition, the network interface unit 105 may receive content or data provided by the Internet, a content provider, or a network operator through a network.

[0066] The storage unit 103 may store a program for processing and controlling signals in the control unit 107 or store a signal-processed image, voice, or data signal.

[0067] In addition, the storage section 103 may be used to temporarily store an image, voice or data signal to be input to the external device interface section 104. The storage section 103 may also store information on a predetermined broadcast channel through a channel memory function such as a channel map.

[0068] Figure 1 The embodiment in which the storage unit 103 and the control unit 107 are separately provided is shown. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The storage unit 103 may be included in the control unit 107.

[0069] The user input interface unit 106 may send a signal input by the user to the control unit 107 , or send a signal from the control unit 107 to the user.

[0070] For example, the user input interface unit 106 may receive user input signals such as power on / off, channel selection, and screen configuration from a remote control device according to various communication methods such as a radio frequency (RF) communication method or an infrared (IR) communication method, or may send signals from the control unit 107 to the remote control device.

[0071] The control unit 107 may generate and output a signal for outputting an image or a voice by demultiplexing an input stream signal or processing a demultiplexed signal using the tuner section 101 , the demodulation section 102 , and the external device interface section 104 .

[0072] In addition, the image signal image-processed by the control unit 107 may be input to the display module 110 so that an image corresponding to the corresponding image signal may be displayed. The image signal image-processed by the control unit 107 may be input to an external output device through the external device interface part 104.

[0073] The voice signal processed by the control unit 107 may be output as sound to the audio output section 108. The voice signal processed by the control unit 107 may be input to an external output device through the external device interface section 104.

[0074] In addition, the control unit 107 may control the overall operation of the display device 100 .

[0075] The display module 110 may generate a driving signal by converting an image signal, a data signal, an OSD signal, a control signal, etc. processed by the control unit 107 or converting an image signal, a data signal, a control signal, etc. received by the external device interface part 104 .

[0076] In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure provide examples in which the display device 100 can be deformed so that the display module 110 is in a flat state (i.e., a flat display mode) or a curved state (i.e., a curved display mode). When the display module 110 is deformed to be in a curved state (or curved state), the display module 110 can provide the user with realistic image quality and immersion as if the display module 110 surrounds a user positioned in front of the display module 110. For example, the display device 100 can be implemented by an OLED panel. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0077] The display module 110 may be configured to provide a three-dimensional image to a user. In order to view the three-dimensional image, the display module 110 may be classified into an additional display type display module and a single display type display module.

[0078] The single display type display module 110 may realize a 3D image alone without a separate 3D viewing device 130 such as 3D glasses, etc. For example, various modules such as a lens type or a parallax barrier may be applied.

[0079] The additional display type display module may implement a 3D image using the 3D viewing device 130 in addition to the display module 110. For example, various modules such as a head mounted display (HMD) type or a glasses type may be applied.

[0080] In addition, the display module 110 may include a touch screen and function as an input device as well as an output device.

[0081] The display deformation driving part 120 may be configured to deform the display module 110 into a planar state or a curved state (or a curved state).

[0082] In the present disclosure, the curvature of the display module 110 can be arbitrarily changed between the flat display mode and the curved display mode. In the flat display mode, the display module 110 can be implemented in a flat state. In the curved display mode, the display module 110 can be implemented in a curved state.

[0083] For example, the display deformation driving part 120 may be configured to deform the display module 110 by directly or indirectly applying a physical force to the display module 110 .

[0084] The audio output part 108 may receive a signal (eg, a stereo signal, a 3.1 channel signal, or a 5.1 channel signal) voice-processed by the control unit 107 and output a voice. The audio output part 108 may be implemented as various types of speakers.

[0085] The power supply part 109 may supply corresponding power to overall components of the display device 100 .

[0086] For example, examples of the display device 100 disclosed in the embodiments of the present disclosure may include a television, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a notebook computer, a digital broadcast terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), etc.

[0087] Figure 1 The block diagram of the display device 100 shown is a block diagram of an embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, the constituent elements in the block diagram may be integrated, added, or excluded according to the specifications of the display device 100 actually implemented. For example, two or more constituent elements may be integrated into a single constituent element, or one constituent element may be divided into two or more constituent elements as needed. In addition, the functions performed in each block are provided to illustrate the embodiment of the present disclosure. The specific operation or device does not limit the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0088] Figure 2 It is schematically shown Figure 1 The block diagram of the display module in .

[0089] Reference Figure 2 The display module 110 of the embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a display panel 111 including a plurality of sub-pixels; and a driving circuit part 112 configured to supply various types of signals to the display panel 111 .

[0090] The display panel 111 may be configured to display an image to a user, and include a plurality of sub-pixels SP. In the display panel 111, a plurality of scan lines SL and a plurality of data lines DL may cross each other, and each of the plurality of sub-pixels SP may be connected to the scan line SL and the data line DL. In addition, the plurality of sub-pixels SP may each be connected to a high potential power line, a low potential power line, a reference line, etc. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0091] The display panel 111 may have a display area and a non-display area configured to surround the display area.

[0092] The display area is an area of ​​the display panel 111 where an image is displayed.

[0093] The display area may include a plurality of sub-pixels configured to constitute a plurality of pixels and a circuit configured to operate the plurality of sub-pixels. The plurality of sub-pixels are the smallest units constituting the display area. n sub-pixels may constitute a single pixel. All types of display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel, an organic electroluminescent display panel, a quantum dot display panel, and an electroluminescent display panel may be used as the display panel 111 used in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0094] The non-display area is an area where no image is displayed. The non-display area can be defined as an area extending from the display area. The non-display area may include link lines and pad electrodes for transmitting signals to sub-pixels in the display area. Alternatively, the non-display area may include driver ICs such as a gate driver IC and a data driver IC.

[0095] The drive circuit unit 112 responds to the Figure 1 The display panel 111 is operated by a control signal supplied from the control unit 107 in the display panel 111. To this end, the driving circuit section 112 may include a gate driving section 112-2, a data driving section 112-3, and a timing controller 112-1.

[0096] For example, the gate driving part 112 - 2 may supply a plurality of scan signals to a plurality of scan lines in response to a plurality of gate control signals provided from the timing controller 112 - 1 . Figure 2 It is shown that a single gate driving part 112-2 is disposed to be spaced apart from the left side of the display panel 111. However, the number and arrangement of the gate driving parts 112-2 are not limited thereto.

[0097] For example, the data driving part 112-3 may convert image data input from the timing controller 112-1 into data voltages by using reference gamma voltages in response to a plurality of data control signals provided from the timing controller 112-1. The data driving part 112-3 may supply the converted data voltages to a plurality of data lines.

[0098] In addition, the timing controller 112-1 can align the image data input from the outside and supply the image data to the data driving part 112-3. The timing controller 112-1 can generate a gate control signal and a data control signal by using a synchronization signal (i.e., a dot clock signal, a data enable signal, and a horizontal / vertical synchronization signal) input from the outside. In addition, the timing controller 112-1 can control the gate driving part 112-2 and the data driving part 112-3 by supplying the generated gate control signal and data control signal to the gate driving part 112-2 and the data driving part 112-3.

[0099] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a display device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] Figure 4 is a rear view showing the display device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A three-dimensional diagram of the hinge unit in FIG.

[0102] Figure 31 is a perspective view showing a rear surface of the display device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a bracket 115 , a hinge cover 121 , and a bracket fastening portion 124 .

[0103] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing the rear surface of the display device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, which does not include the bracket 115, the hinge cover 121 and the bracket fastening portion 124. For convenience of description, Figure 4 A state in which the left side of the hinge unit 122 is excluded is shown.

[0104] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The display device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display module 110 , a bracket 115 , and a display deformation driving unit 120 .

[0105] The display deformation driving part 120 may include a hinge unit 122 configured to deform the display module 110 into a planar state or a curved state, and a hinge cover 121 configured to cover the hinge unit 122 .

[0106] The display module 110 is a constituent element for providing images and sounds to a user. To this end, various types of components for providing images and sounds may be installed in the display module 110 .

[0107] The display module 110 may include a display panel and a display cover 113 .

[0108] The display panel may be configured to display an image to the outside, and may be configured as various displays for displaying images. That is, the display panel may be a flat panel display, and may be provided as any one of a plasma display panel, a liquid crystal display, an organic light emitting diode display, and a light emitting diode display. For example, in the case where the flat panel display is a liquid crystal display, the display module 110 may include a liquid crystal panel configured to display an image, a backlight unit configured to supply light to the liquid crystal panel, a display cover, and the like. In addition, in the case where the flat panel display is an organic light emitting diode display, the display module 110 may include an organic light emitting diode panel configured to display an image, a display cover, and the like.

[0109] In addition, for example, the display panel can be provided as a curved display or a flexible display (rather than a flat panel display). In addition, of course, the display panel can be provided as a touch-type display.

[0110] The display cover 113 is a component configured to cover the display panel. The display cover 113 may be provided as a single cover or multiple covers. For example, in the case where the display cover is provided as multiple covers, the display cover 113 may include a decorative cabinet, a cover bottom, a back cover, etc. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0111] A bracket mounting hole for mounting the bracket 115 may be formed in the rear surface of the display cover 113 .

[0112] In addition, various interface cables such as a power cable for supplying power to the display module 110 and a cable for providing sound may be provided on the rear surface of the display cover 113 .

[0113] Although not shown, a heat dissipation portion may be provided on the rear surface of the display cover 113 and provided below the bracket mounting hole to dissipate heat in the display module 110. The heat dissipation portion may be formed in a direction facing the front surface of the bracket body 115-1 of the bracket 115. Therefore, the heat dissipation portion may be provided so as not to be exposed to the outside of the display device 100.

[0114] The bracket 115 is a constituent element for supporting the display module 110 .

[0115] The bracket 115 may be installed behind the display module 110 and placed on a table, a desk, etc. The bracket 115 may stably support the display module 110. For example, the bracket 115 may be disposed behind the display module 110 and mounted on a rear surface of the bracket fastening portion 124. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0116] The bracket 115 may include a bracket body 115 - 1 and a bracket base 115 - 2 .

[0117] The bracket body 115-1 may be installed behind the display module 110. For example, the bracket body 115-1 may be disposed behind the display module 110 and in a height direction of the display module 110.

[0118] For example, the bracket body 115 - 1 may include a front cover, a body base, and a rear cover.

[0119] In addition, for example, the stand base 115-2 may be connected to the lower side of the stand body 115-1 and placed on a table, desk, etc. In this case, the stand base 115-2 may be detachably connected to the lower side of the stand body 115-1. Therefore, in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, when the product is shipped, the stand base 115-2 may be separately separated from the stand body 115-1 and transferred to a user, etc.

[0120] For example, the support base 115-2 may be made of a metal material. This configuration is implemented in consideration of design and rigidity. The support base 115-2 made of a metal material may achieve a beautiful appearance design of the display device 100 and ensure support rigidity.

[0121] In addition, the display deformation driving part 120 is a constituent element for adjusting the angle of the display module 110 to provide an optimal angle when a user or the like uses the display device 100 . In addition, the display deformation driving part 120 may connect the display module 110 and the bracket 115 .

[0122] The display deformation driving part 120 may include a hinge unit 122 configured to deform the display module 110 into a planar state or a curved state (or a curved state); and a hinge cover 121 configured to cover the hinge unit 122 .

[0123] As described above, the hinge unit 122 can deform the display module 110 into a planar state or a curved state, thereby achieving free stop bending in the curved state.

[0124] For example, the hinge unit 122 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a 4-torque hinge structure to achieve free stop bending. For example, the hinge unit 122 may include a first hinge frame 126-1, a second hinge frame 126-2, a third hinge frame 126-3, a first hinge part 125-1, a second hinge part 125-2, and a plurality of stoppers 140. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The first hinge part 125-1 may be an inner hinge part, and the second hinge part 125-2 may be an outer hinge part.

[0125] For example, one second hinge frame 126 - 2 may be hingedly coupled to either side of one first hinge frame 126 - 1 through the first hinge part 125 - 1 .

[0126] For example, one third hinge frame 126 - 3 may be hingedly coupled to outer ends of the respective second hinge frames 126 - 2 through the second hinge part 125 - 2 .

[0127] The torque may be generated by the first hinge part 125-1 and the second hinge part 125-2. For example, the torque level may be adjusted by adjusting the surface friction between the components of the bolt 127 and the nut 129 fastened to the first hinge part 125-1 and the second hinge part 125-2. For example, the torque may be increased by tightening the bolt 127 and the nut 129, and the torque may be reduced by loosening the bolt 127 and the nut 129. A detailed description of this configuration will be described below.

[0128] For example, a pair of stoppers 140 may be respectively coupled to the outer ends of the third hinge frame 126-3. For example, when the display device 100 is viewed from the rear side, the stoppers 140 may be respectively disposed one by one at the upper and lower sides of the outer ends of the third hinge frame 126-3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and position of the stoppers 140 may be adjusted according to the magnitude of the force applied in the opposite direction (relative to the bending direction) to unfold the display module 110.

[0129] Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the upper side and the lower side mean the upper side and the lower side when viewed from the rear side in a state where the display device 100 stands upright.

[0130] The stopper 140 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may be used to limit (block) a force applied in the opposite direction to unfold the display module 110 in the curved state. A detailed description of this configuration will be described below.

[0131] As described above, the hinge unit 122 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a single first hinge frame 126-1, two second hinge frames 126-2, two third hinge frames 126-3, two first hinge parts 125-1, two second hinge parts 125-2, and two pairs of stoppers 140. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0132] In addition, the hinge cover 121 may cover and protect the hinge unit 122 , that is, the first hinge frame 126 - 1 , the second hinge frame 126 - 2 , the third hinge frame 126 - 3 , the first hinge part 125 - 1 , the second hinge part 125 - 2 , and the plurality of stoppers 140 .

[0133] The display deformation driving part 120 may further include a fastening part 124 fastened to the bracket 115 while covering the central portion of the hinge cover 121 .

[0134] The display deformation driving unit 120 may further include a handle 123, which is disposed at two opposite sides of the hinge cover 121 and is configured to allow a user to apply a physical force to arbitrarily deform the display module 110 into a planar state or a curved state. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a user may pull two opposite handles 123 forward or push two opposite handles 123 backward to arbitrarily deform the display module 110 into a planar state or a curved state, wherein the display module 110 has any curvature.

[0135] Figure 6 is a diagram exemplarily illustrating free stop bending by a hinge unit.

[0136] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of the first hinge portion in FIG.

[0137] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 Schematic diagram of a portion of a cross section of a first hinge part.

[0138] Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining free stop bending by a hinge unit. Figure 6is a diagram illustrating the display module 110 and a hinge unit on a rear surface of the display module 110 when viewed from a top side (eg, when a viewer is located at a left side).

[0139] First refer to Figures 6 to 8 In the display device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the display module 110 can be freely switched (or freely stopped) between the planar state and the curved state through the hinge unit.

[0140] In addition, when the display module 110 is freely switched between the planar state and the curved state through the hinge unit, the user can stop the display module 110 at a desired point (or a desired curvature radius), and the stopper ( Figure 4 140) in the display module 110 can prevent the display module 110 from moving to another position.

[0141] For example, the curved state of the display module 110 can be realized by the first hinge frame 126-1, the second hinge frame 126-2, the third hinge frame 126-3, the first hinge portion 125-1 and the second hinge portion 125-2. In particular, the curved state of the display module 110 can be realized by the first hinge portion 125-1 between the first hinge frame 126-1 and the second hinge frame 126-2 and the second hinge portion 125-2 between the second hinge frame 126-2 and the third hinge frame 126-3.

[0142] As described above, torque may be generated by the first hinge part 125-1 and the second hinge part 125-2. That is, for example, the torque level may be adjusted by adjusting the surface friction between the components of the bolt 127 and the nut 129 fastened to the first hinge part 125-1 and the second hinge part 125-2. For example, the torque may be increased by tightening the bolt 127 and the nut 129, and the torque may be reduced by loosening the bolt 127 and the nut 129.

[0143] For example, the display module 110 may be bent primarily at a first curvature through the first hinge portion 125-1, and the display module 110 may be bent secondarily at a second curvature through the second hinge portion 125-2. The second curvature may be greater than the first curvature.

[0144] For example, the flat washer 127-1, the spring washer 127-2, the first hinge frame 126-1, the polyoxymethylene POM 127-3 and the second hinge frame 126-2 can be arranged in sequence between the bolt 127 and the nut 129, and the second hinge frame 126-2, the POM 127-3, the first hinge frame 126-1, the spring washer 127-2 and the flat washer 127-1 can be arranged on the lower side thereof in the reverse order.

[0145] The flat washer 127-1 and the spring washer 127-2 may be components having a flat plate shape and a spring shape and are configured to be assembled between the head of the screw or bolt 127 and a component or structure. The flat washer 127-1 and the spring washer 127-2 may be used to reduce friction between components or tighten the bolt 127 more securely.

[0146] POM 127-3 is a polymer, and has excellent stiffness and strength, high durability, and stable properties even at high temperatures. POM 127-3 may be replaced by another material.

[0147] In addition, the metal block 127 - 4 may be inserted between the second hinge frame 126 - 2 and the second hinge frame 126 - 2 between the bolt 127 and the nut 129 . However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0148] Furthermore, in the display device of the first embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of stoppers 140 are coupled to the outer ends of the third hinge frames 126-3 and are used to limit (block) the force applied in the opposite direction to unfold the display module 110 in the curved state. 9A to 9C , FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C , Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B , Fig.13A and Fig. 13B Detailed description.

[0149] 9A to 9C yes Figure 4 Magnified view of part A in FIG.

[0150] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C yes Figure 4 An enlarged stereogram of portion A in FIG.

[0151] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C is shown when viewed from the side Figure 4 Illustration of part A in FIG.

[0152] Fig. 12A yes Fig. 9C Magnified view of part B in FIG.

[0153] Fig. 12B It is shown along Fig. 12A Illustration of a cross section taken along line CC' in FIG.

[0154] Fig.13A yes Fig. 9C Magnified view of part B in FIG.

[0155] Fig. 13B It is shown along Fig.13A Schematic diagram of a cross section taken along line D-D' in FIG.

[0156] Fig. 9A and Fig. 10A An example of a portion of a rear surface of a display device in a state where a hinge unit is removed is shown.

[0157] Fig. 9B and 10B An example of a portion of the rear surface of the display device including the hinge unit and not including the stopper 140 is shown. Fig. 9C and Fig. 10C An example of a portion of a rear surface of a display device including a hinge unit is shown.

[0158] in addition, Fig.11A is a diagram illustrating a display device in a state where a hinge unit is removed when viewed from a lower side. Fig. 11B 1 is a diagram illustrating a display device including a hinge unit and excluding the stopper 140 when viewed from a lower side. Fig. 11C is a diagram illustrating a display device including a hinge unit when viewed from a lower side.

[0159] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B An example of a portion of a display device in a curved display mode is shown. Fig.13A and Fig. 13B An example of a portion of a display device in a flat display mode is shown.

[0160] The present disclosure may include a 4-torque hinge structure including an inner hinge portion and an outer hinge portion to achieve free stop bending.

[0161] In addition, a curvature defect may occur when the curvature maintaining force (i.e., torque) of the hinge unit cannot resist the force applied in the opposite direction to unfold the display module. In this case, the force applied in the opposite direction to unfold the display module is opposite to the curvature maintaining force of the hinge unit.

[0162] Therefore, a plurality of stoppers may be coupled to the hinge unit of the present disclosure, for example, an outer end of the third hinge frame.

[0163] Reference 9A to 9C , FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C , Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B , Fig.13A and Fig. 13B , the hinge unit may include a first hinge frame ( Figure 5 126-1 in the embodiment), the second hinge frame 126-2, the third hinge frame 126-3, the first hinge part ( Figure 5 125 - 1 ), a second hinge portion 125 - 2 and a plurality of stoppers 140 .

[0164] As described above, for example, one second hinge frame 126 - 2 may be hingedly coupled to either side of one first hinge frame 126 - 1 through the first hinge part 125 - 1 .

[0165] For example, one third hinge frame 126 - 3 may be hingedly coupled to outer ends of the respective second hinge frames 126 - 2 through the second hinge part 125 - 2 .

[0166] For example, the stoppers 140 may be respectively coupled to the outer ends of the third hinge frame 126-3. For example, when the display device is viewed from the rear side, the stoppers 140 may be respectively disposed one by one at the upper side and the lower side of the outer end of the third hinge frame 126-3 to achieve horizontal curvature symmetry. That is, the stoppers 140 may be respectively disposed one by one at the upper side and the lower side of the outer end of the third hinge frame 126-3 to achieve curvature symmetry of the upper side and the lower side of the display module 110 relative to the third hinge frame 126-3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and position of the stoppers may be adjusted according to the magnitude of the force applied in the opposite direction (relative to the bending direction) to unfold the display module 110. For example, a pair of upper and lower stoppers 140 may have a horizontally symmetrical structure. For example, a pair of stoppers 140 disposed at the outer end of the third hinge frame 126-3 on the right side and a pair of stoppers 140 disposed outside the third hinge frame 126-3 on the left side may have a vertically symmetrical structure.

[0167] The stopper 140 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may be used to limit (block) a force applied in an opposite direction to unfold the display module 110 in a curved state (or curved state) of the display module 110 .

[0168] For example, the stopper 140 may be a thin plate and have a rectangular shape as a whole. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0169] An elongated semicircular slit (or groove) 143 may be provided inside one side of the stopper 140. The fixing portion 141 surrounded by the slit 143 may move upward or downward like a leaf spring.

[0170] As described above, in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display module 110 is changed from the curved surface state in which the display module 110 is bent to the flat surface state, the fixing portion 141 surrounded by the slit 143 rather than the entire stopper 140 moves upward or downward like a leaf spring, which can reduce the force pushing the polymer plate 155. In addition, the force pushing the polymer plate 155 can be reduced by changing the position of the relief portion 142. As a result, noise and wear of constituent components such as the polymer plate 155 caused by repeated bending can be suppressed.

[0171] In this case, examples of a method of reducing the force applied to the relief portion 142 include a method of reducing the force applied to the relief portion 142 in a planar state by forming a slit 143 around the relief portion 142 and a method of reducing the force applied to the relief portion 142 by increasing the distance between the relief portion 142 and the fixed portion 141 when the energy used to bend the leaf spring is constant.

[0172] For example, a relief portion 142 as a protruding structure may be formed at a lower portion of the fixing portion 141 of the stopper 140, and the relief portion 142 may also move upward or downward according to the upward or downward movement of the fixing portion 141. In this case, the upward / downward direction means the front side and the rear side when viewed from the rear side in a state where the display device is standing upright.

[0173] For example, in a plan view, the embossed portion 142 may have a circular shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0174] The stopper 140 may be fastened to the display cover 113 by the fastening means 146. For example, the stopper 140 may be fastened to the fixing means 151 by the fastening means 146, and the fixing means 151 may be formed on the rear surface of the display cover 113.

[0175] For example, the fastening means 146 may include a screw. In addition, for example, the fixing means 151 may include a nut or a press-fit thread insert nut (PEM nut).

[0176] The outer ends of the third hinge frame 126-3 may be bent upward and downward and constitute a pair of support portions 153. For example, the support portion 153 has a rectangular shape as a whole. A slot may be formed in the support portion 153 and have a shape elongated in the longitudinal direction.

[0177] A polymer plate 155 having a shape (form) similar to that of the support portion 153 may be disposed on the support portion 153 , and the stopper 140 may be disposed on the polymer plate 155 .

[0178] Separately, the polymer plate 155 is attached to the support portion 153 of the third hinge frame 126-3, and the stopper 140 is fastened to the display cover 113. Therefore, the third hinge frame 126-3 and the polymer plate 155 attached to the support portion 153 of the third hinge frame 126-3 can move leftward and rightward relative to the display cover 113 and the stopper 140 fastened to the display cover 113 in response to a flat state or a curved state of the display module 110.

[0179] For example, the polymer plate 155 may have a rectangular shape as a whole.Similar to the support portion 153, the polymer plate 155 may have a slit 154 formed therein and having a shape elongated in the longitudinal direction.

[0180] For example, the polymer plate 155 may include polyoxymethylene (POM). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0181] For example, the slot 154 of the polymer plate 155 may correspond to the slot of the support portion 153. The slot of the support portion 153 may be larger than the slot 154 of the polymer plate 155.

[0182] For example, the slot 154 of the polymer plate 155 may include a plurality of circular first holes 154-1. That is, the circular first holes 154-1 are formed in the polymer plate 155 at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction so that the slot 154 having an elongated shape may be formed. In this case, the slot 154 may include the first holes 154-1 and the second holes 154-2 formed between the first holes 154-1. The width of the second hole 154-2 may be smaller than the width of the first hole 154-1.

[0183] For example, the width or diameter of the first hole 154 - 1 may enable the embossed portion 142 to be inserted into the first hole 154 - 1 . In contrast, the width of the second hole 154 - 2 may be smaller than the width of the embossed portion 142 .

[0184] Therefore, in the case of realizing the curved display mode by manipulating the display deformation driving unit, the relief portion 142 is positioned in the first hole 154-1 in a predetermined (or specific) curvature state, so that the relief portion 142 can be inserted and fixed to the first hole 154-1. In this case, the force applied in the opposite direction to unfold the display module 110 can be limited so that the display module 110 can be maintained in the predetermined (or specific) curvature state (see Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B ).

[0185] On the contrary, in the case where the flat display mode is realized by manipulating the display deformation driving part or the display module 110 has a curvature between specific curvatures, the relief portion 142 is positioned in the second hole 154-2 so that the relief portion 142 can be positioned on the polymer plate 155 by lifting upward without being inserted and fixed to the second hole 154-2. In this case, the display module 110 can be maintained in a flat state or slide toward the periphery to be in a curved state (see Fig.13A and Fig. 13B ).

[0186] As described above, the fixing portion 141 and the embossed portion 142 of the stopper 140 and the slot 154 of the polymer plate 155 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure may constitute a main curvature maintaining structure that restricts force applied in opposite directions to unfold the display module 110 .

[0187] The plurality of first holes 154-1 may be formed at predetermined (or specific) positions to achieve a predetermined (or specific) curvature of the display module 110. When the relief portion 142 is inserted into (or caught by) the first hole 154-1, the plurality of first holes 154-1 may be used to limit a force applied in an opposite direction to unfold the display module 110.

[0188] In addition, the display device of the present disclosure may include a link structure configured to synchronize a pair of upper and lower stoppers 140 and prevent deformation of the stoppers 140. That is, in the case where the stopper 140 and the display module 110 are fastened at a single point without providing a link structure, the stopper 140 may be deformed relative to the fastening point (i.e., the fastening device 146).

[0189] Thus, for example, in the display device of the present disclosure, the link 145 may be attached to the upper portion of the pair of upper and lower stoppers 140 in a direction in which the link 145 crosses the pair of stoppers 140. For example, the link 145 may be attached to the upper portion of the fixing portion 141 of the stopper 140 opposite to the relief portion 142.

[0190] As described above, the relief portion 142 as a protruding structure may be formed at the lower portion of the fixing portion 141 of the stopper 140, and the link 145 may be attached to the upper portion of the fixing portion 141 of the stopper 140 opposite to the relief portion 142, so that the relief portion 142 and the link 145 may move upward and downward according to the upward and downward movement of the fixing portion 141. In this case, the upward / downward direction means the front side and the rear side when viewed from the rear side in a state where the display device is erected.

[0191] For example, the link 145 may have a bar shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0192] The link 145 may be used to suppress deformation of the stopper 140 by synchronizing a pair of upper and lower stoppers 140 when the stopper 140 operates. If the stopper 140 is deformed, operational defects and insertion defects of the protruding structure 152 occur.

[0193] Therefore, the insertion holes 145-1 may be formed at both opposite ends of the connecting rod 145 of the present disclosure, and the protrusion structure 152 may be inserted into the insertion holes 145-1. In addition, the insertion hole 145-1 may also be formed at the center of the connecting rod 145. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0194] In this case, a plurality of protruding structures 152 may be formed on the rear surface of the display cover 113 and disposed at positions corresponding to the insertion holes 145-1. The accompanying drawings show an example in which three protruding structures 152 are disposed at each of the upper portion, the lower portion, and the central portion. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A desired number of protruding structures 152 may be disposed to achieve a predetermined (or specific) curvature.

[0195] For example, the protrusion structure 152 may be provided on the rear surface of the display cover 113 and have a height that enables the protrusion structure 152 to penetrate the insertion hole 145 - 1 .

[0196] For example, the protruding structure 152 may be integrated with the display cover 113. That is, the protruding structure 152 and the display cover 113 may be integrated like a unified material, so that component materials may be simplified and unified.

[0197] For example, the plurality of protrusion structures 152 may be disposed at intervals between the plurality of first holes 154 - 1 . However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0198] That is, the position of the protruding structure 152 can be determined according to the free stop position. In addition, the number of the protruding structure 152 can be determined according to the stop enhancement force.

[0199] As described above, the connecting rod 145 together with the protruding structure 152 may constitute an auxiliary curvature maintaining structure for minimizing the bending stiffness of the relief portion 142 .

[0200] Therefore, in the case of realizing the curved display mode by manipulating the display deformation driving portion, sliding occurs between the display cover 113 and the third hinge frame 126-3, and the fixing portion 141 of the stopper 140 moves upward or downward. In addition, the connecting rod 145 attached to the upper portion of the fixing portion 141 also moves upward or downward. In this case, as the connecting rod 145 moves upward or downward, the protruding structure 152 can be inserted into and fixed to the insertion hole 145-1 of the connecting rod 145. Therefore, in this case, the force applied in the opposite direction to unfold the display module 110 can be limited, so that the display module 110 can be maintained in a predetermined (or specific) curvature state (see Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B ).

[0201] In this case, in the case where the auxiliary curvature maintaining structure is applied, the relief portion 142 may perform a function of moving the auxiliary curvature maintaining structure upward or downward, rather than a stopper function.

[0202] On the contrary, in the case where the flat display mode is realized by manipulating the display deformation driving part or the display module 110 has a curvature between specific curvatures, the relief portion 142 is positioned in the second hole 154-2 so that the relief portion 142 can be positioned on the polymer plate 155 by lifting upward without being inserted and fixed to the second hole 154-2. In this case, the connecting rod 145 attached to the upper part of the fixing portion 141 is also lifted upward and positioned between the protruding structures 152. Therefore, the display module 110 can be maintained in a flat state or slide toward the periphery to be in a curved state (see Fig.13A and Fig. 13B ).

[0203] The accompanying drawings show an example in which a single connecting rod 145 constitutes the auxiliary curvature maintaining structure. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Two or more connecting rods 145 may be provided. In this case, the protruding structure 152 provided at two or more points may be inserted into the two or more connecting rods 145.

[0204] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B is a diagram showing simulation results, which shows an example of equivalent stress of a comparative example.

[0205] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B is a diagram showing simulation results, which shows an example of equivalent stress of the embodiment.

[0206] In this case, the boundary condition of the simulation is the case where the relief portion moves upward by about 5.0 mm.

[0207] For reference, equivalent stress refers to a concept used to evaluate the overall stress state of a material or structure. Equivalent stress can be represented by a single scalar value that combines multiple stresses in a complex stress situation that occurs when a three-dimensional object is subjected to various loads.

[0208] Reference Fig.14A and Fig. 14B , it can be seen that the maximum stress in the case of the comparative example is about 19955 MP, and the maximum stress is measured at the periphery of the embossed portion and the periphery of the fixed portion.

[0209] On the contrary, refer to Fig.15A and Fig. 15B It can be seen that, in the case of the embodiment, the maximum stress is about 4369.3 MP at the periphery of the relief portion and about 2570.3 MP at the periphery of the fixed portion, and this maximum stress is significantly reduced compared with the maximum stress in the comparative example.

[0210] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the stopper may be provided not only at the outer end of the third hinge frame but also additionally on the second hinge frame. Fig.16 to describe.

[0211] Fig.16 is a rear view showing a display device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0212] In addition to the second stopper 240b being additionally provided on the second hinge frame 126-2, Fig.16 The configuration of the second embodiment in Figures 3 to 13A and Fig. 13B Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0213] Fig.16 2 is a diagram showing the rear surface of the display device 200 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, which does not include the bracket, the hinge cover and the bracket fastening part. For the convenience of description, Fig.16 A state in which the left side of the hinge unit is excluded is shown.

[0214] Reference Fig.16 The display device 200 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure may generally include a display module 110, a bracket, and a display deformation driving part.

[0215] The display deformation driving unit may include: a hinge unit configured to deform the display module 110 into a flat state or a curved state; and a hinge cover configured to cover the hinge unit. The display module 110, the hinge unit and the hinge cover are described in detail with reference to the first embodiment described above.

[0216] As described above, for example, the hinge unit may include the first hinge frame 126-1, the second hinge frame 126-2, the third hinge frame 126-3, the first hinge part 125-1, the second hinge part 125-2, and the plurality of stoppers 240a and 240b.

[0217] For example, one second hinge frame 126 - 2 may be hingedly coupled to either side of one first hinge frame 126 - 1 through the first hinge part 125 - 1 .

[0218] For example, one third hinge frame 126 - 3 may be hingedly coupled to outer ends of the respective second hinge frames 126 - 2 through the second hinge part 125 - 2 .

[0219] For example, a pair of first stoppers 240a may be respectively coupled to the outer ends of the third hinge frame 126-3. That is, for example, when the display device 200 is viewed from the rear side, the first stoppers 240a may be respectively disposed one by one at the upper and lower sides of the outer ends of the third hinge frame 126-3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and position of the stoppers 240a may be adjusted according to the magnitude of the force applied in the opposite direction (relative to the bending direction) to unfold the display module 110.

[0220] In addition, in the second embodiment of the present disclosure, a pair of second stoppers 240b may be respectively coupled to the second hinge frame 126-2. For example, when the display device 200 is viewed from the rear side, the second stoppers 240b may be respectively disposed one by one on the upper side and the lower side of the second hinge frame 126-2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number and position of the second stoppers 240b may be adjusted according to the magnitude of the force applied to the display module 110 in the opposite direction to unfold the display module 110.

[0221] For example, the first stopper 240a and the second stopper 240b may be disposed at the same horizontal position.

[0222] The detailed structures of the first stopper 240 a and the second stopper 240 b of the second embodiment of the present disclosure may refer to the first embodiment described above.

[0223] As described above, the hinge unit according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure may include a single first hinge frame 126-1, two second hinge frames 126-2, two third hinge frames 126-3, two first hinge parts 125-1, two second hinge parts 125-2, two pairs of first stoppers 240a and two pairs of second stoppers 240b. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0224] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, a stopper structure may be formed by further extending an end portion of the third hinge frame. This configuration will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0225] Fig.17 is a rear view showing a display device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0226] Fig.18A and Fig.18B is a rear view showing a part of the rear surface of the display device according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0227] Fig.19A and Fig.19B : is a perspective view showing a part of the rear surface of the display device according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0228] Fig.173 is a diagram showing the rear surface of the display device 300 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, which does not include the bracket, the hinge cover and the bracket fastening part. For the convenience of description, Fig.17 A state in which the left side of the hinge unit is excluded is shown.

[0229] Fig.18A An example of a portion of a rear surface of a display device in a state where a hinge unit is removed is shown.

[0230] Fig.18B and Fig.19A An example of a portion of a rear surface of a display device including a hinge unit is shown. Fig.19B Show Fig.19A The enlarged part E.

[0231] In addition to forming the stopper 340 by extending the end of the third hinge frame 326-3, Fig.17 , Fig.18A , Fig.18B , Fig.19A and Fig.19B The configuration of the third embodiment in Figures 3 to 13A and Fig. 13B Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0232] Reference Fig.17 , Fig.18A , Fig.18B , Fig.19A and Fig.19B , the display device 300 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure may include a display module 110 , a bracket, and a display deformation driving part.

[0233] For example, the hinge unit may include a first hinge frame 126 - 1 , a second hinge frame 126 - 2 , a third hinge frame 326 - 3 , a first hinge part 125 - 1 , a second hinge part 125 - 2 , and a stopper 340 .

[0234] As described above, for example, one second hinge frame 126 - 2 may be hingedly coupled to either side of one first hinge frame 126 - 1 through the first hinge part 125 - 1 .

[0235] For example, one third hinge frame 326 - 3 may be hingedly coupled to outer ends of the respective second hinge frames 126 - 2 through the second hinge parts 125 - 2 .

[0236] For example, the stopper 340 may be formed by extending the outer ends of the respective third hinge frames 326-3 in the length direction. As described above, the stopper 340 of the third embodiment may be integrated with the third hinge frame 326-3. That is, the stopper 340 and the third hinge frame 326-3 may be integrated, like a unified material, so that the component materials may be simplified and unified.

[0237] For example, a lower side of the outer end of the third hinge frame 326 - 3 may extend in the length direction and be bent twice so that the bent ends may define the stopper 340 .

[0238] As described above, in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, the end of the third hinge frame 326 - 3 constitutes the stopper 340 , which can prevent the stopper from being horizontally asymmetrically arranged. Therefore, the problem of horizontal asymmetrical curvature of the display module 110 can be suppressed.

[0239] An elongated semicircular slit (or groove) 343 may be provided inside one side of the stopper 340. The fixing portion 341 surrounded by the slit 343 may move upward or downward like a leaf spring. In this case, the slit 343 has a semicircular shape opened at its outer side. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0240] In addition, for example, an embossed portion as a protruding structure may be formed at a lower portion of the fixing portion 341 of the stopper 340 , and the embossed portion may also move upward or downward according to the upward or downward movement of the fixing portion 341 .

[0241] For example, a plurality of circular holes 354 may be provided in the rear surface of the display cover 113 and arranged at predetermined (or specific) intervals.

[0242] For example, the width or diameter of the hole 354 may enable the relief portion to be inserted into the hole 354 .

[0243] Therefore, in the case of realizing the curved display mode by manipulating the display deformation driving part, the relief portion is positioned in the hole 354 in a predetermined (or specific) curvature state so that the relief portion can be inserted and fixed to the hole 354. In this case, the force applied in the opposite direction to unfold the display module 110 can be limited so that the display module 110 can be maintained in the predetermined (or specific) curvature state.

[0244] In contrast, in the case where the flat display mode is realized by manipulating the display deformation driving portion or the display module 110 has a curvature between specific curvatures, the embossed portion is positioned between the holes 354 so that the embossed portion is lifted upward and positioned on the rear surface of the display cover 113 without being inserted and fixed into the holes 354. In this case, the display module 110 can be maintained in a flat state or slide toward the periphery to be in a curved state.

[0245] As described above, the plurality of holes 354 and the fixing portion 341 and the embossed portion of the stopper 340 of the third embodiment of the present disclosure may constitute a main curvature maintaining structure that restricts a force applied in an opposite direction to unfold the display module 110 .

[0246] The plurality of holes 354 may be formed at predetermined (or specific) positions to achieve a predetermined (or specific) curvature of the display module 110 .

[0247] For example, in the display device 300 of the third embodiment of the present disclosure, the link 345 may be attached to the upper portion of the stopper 340 in a direction in which the link 345 crosses the stopper 340. For example, the link 345 may be attached to the upper portion of the fixing portion 341 of the stopper 340 opposite to the embossed portion 142.

[0248] Therefore, a relief portion as a protruding structure can be formed at a lower portion of the fixed portion 341 of the stopper 340, and a connecting rod 345 can be attached to an upper portion of the fixed portion 341 of the stopper 340 opposite to the relief portion, so that the relief portion and the connecting rod 345 can move upward and downward according to the upward and downward movement of the fixed portion 341.

[0249] For example, the link 345 may have a bar shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0250] In addition, insertion holes 345 - 1 may be formed at both opposite ends of the link 345 of the present disclosure, and the protrusion structure 352 may be inserted into the insertion hole 345 - 1 .

[0251] In this case, a plurality of protrusion structures 352 may be formed on the rear surface of the display cover 113 and disposed at positions corresponding to the insertion holes 345-1. The accompanying drawings show an example in which three protrusion structures 352 are disposed at each of the upper and lower portions. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A desired number of protrusion structures 352 may be disposed to achieve a predetermined (or specific) curvature.

[0252] For example, the protrusion structure 352 may be provided on the rear surface of the display cover 113 and have a height that enables the protrusion structure 352 to penetrate the insertion hole 345 - 1 .

[0253] For example, the plurality of protrusion structures 352 may be disposed at intervals between the plurality of holes 354. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0254] As described above, the connecting rod 345 together with the protruding structure 352 can constitute a secondary curvature maintaining structure for minimizing the bending stiffness of the relief portion.

[0255] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may also be described as follows:

[0256] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a display device is provided. The display device includes: a display module; and a hinge unit, which is disposed above a rear surface of the display module and is configured to deform the display module into a planar state or a curved state, the hinge unit may include at least one hinge frame and at least one pair of stoppers disposed outside the at least one hinge frame, and a slit having a semicircular shape may be disposed inside one side of the stopper, and a fixed portion surrounded by the slit may move upward or downward to maintain the display module in a planar state or a curved state.

[0257] The hinge unit may include a first hinge frame, a second hinge frame, a third hinge frame, a first hinge portion, a second hinge portion and the pair of stoppers, the second hinge frame may be hingedly connected to opposite sides of the first hinge frame through the first hinge portions, and the third hinge frame may be hingedly connected to outer ends of the second hinge frame through the second hinge portions.

[0258] In a case where the display device is viewed from a rear side, a pair of stoppers may be provided at upper and lower sides of an outer end of the third hinge frame, respectively.

[0259] The display device may further include another pair of stoppers respectively provided at the second hinge frames.

[0260] The display device may further include a bolt and a nut provided in the first hinge part and the second hinge part, and the torque level may be adjusted by adjusting surface friction between various types of components fastened between the bolt and the nut.

[0261] The pair of upper and lower stoppers may have a horizontally symmetrical structure, and the pair of stoppers disposed at the outer end of the third hinge frame on the right and the pair of stoppers disposed outside the third hinge frame on the left may have a vertically symmetrical structure.

[0262] The stopper may be fastened to a fixing device formed over a rear surface of the display module.

[0263] An embossed portion that may be a protruding structure may be provided at a lower portion of the fixing portion of the stopper, the embossed portion may have a circular shape in a plan view, and the embossed portion may move upward or downward according to upward or downward movement of the fixing portion.

[0264] Outer ends of the third hinge frame may be bent upward and downward to define a pair of support portions, and the support portion may have a rectangular shape as a whole, and the first slot may be formed in the support portion and may have a shape elongated in a longitudinal direction.

[0265] The polymer plate may be disposed over an upper portion of the support portion, and the stopper may be disposed over the upper portion of the polymer plate.

[0266] The polymer plate may have a rectangular shape, and a second slot may be formed in the polymer plate and may have a shape elongated in a longitudinal direction, the second slot may be positioned corresponding to the first slot, and a size of the second slot may be greater than a size of the first slot.

[0267] Circular first holes may be disposed in the polymer plate and arranged at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction to define a second slot, the second slot may include a plurality of first holes and a plurality of second holes disposed between the plurality of first holes, and a width of the second holes may be smaller than a width of the first holes.

[0268] In the case where a curved display mode can be realized, the relief portion can be positioned in the first hole under a predetermined (or specific) curvature state so that the relief portion can be inserted and fixed into the first hole. In the case where a flat display mode can be realized or the display module can have a curvature between specific curvatures, the relief portion can be positioned in the second hole so that the relief portion can be lifted upward and positioned on the polymer plate without being inserted and fixed into the second hole.

[0269] The display device may further include a link attached to upper portions of the pair of stoppers in a direction in which the link may cross the pair of stoppers, and the link may be attached to an upper portion of the fixing portion opposite to the embossed portion.

[0270] The display device may further include a plurality of protrusion structures protruding from a rear surface of the display module, insertion holes may be provided at two opposite ends of the connecting rod, and the protrusion structures may be inserted into the insertion holes.

[0271] The protrusion structure may be disposed on the rear surface of the display module and may have a height enabling the protrusion structure to penetrate the insertion hole, and a plurality of protrusion structures may be disposed at intervals between the plurality of first holes.

[0272] In the case where a curved display mode can be realized, the connecting rod can move up or down together with the fixed part of the stopper when the fixed part of the stopper moves up or down, so that the protruding structure can be inserted into and fixed to the insertion hole of the connecting rod. In the case where a flat display mode can be realized or the display module can have a curvature between specific curvatures, the connecting rod attached to the upper part of the fixed part can be lifted upward and positioned between the protruding structures.

[0273] A lower side of an outer end of the hinge frame may extend in a length direction and may be bent twice, and the bent end may constitute a stopper.

[0274] A plurality of circular holes may be provided in the rear surface of the display module at predetermined (or specific) intervals, and an embossed portion, which may be a protruding structure, may be provided at a lower portion of the fixing portion of the stopper.

[0275] In the case where a curved display mode can be realized, the relief portion can be positioned in the hole under a predetermined (or specific) curvature state so that the relief portion can be inserted and fixed into the hole, and in the case where a flat display mode can be realized or the display module can have a curvature between specific curvatures, the relief portion can be positioned between the holes so that the relief portion can be lifted upward and positioned on the rear surface of the display module without being inserted and fixed into the hole.

[0276] Although the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can be specifically implemented in many different forms without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present disclosure. The scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are illustrative in all aspects and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. All technical concepts within the equivalent scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0277] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0278] This application claims the priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0109053 filed on August 21, 2023 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: Display module; as well as a hinge unit disposed above a rear surface of the display module and configured to deform the display module into a flat state or a curved state, Wherein, the hinge unit comprises: at least one hinge frame; and at least one pair of stops, the at least one pair of stops being disposed outside the at least one hinge frame, and A slit having a semicircular shape is provided inside one side of the stopper, and a fixed portion surrounded by the slit moves upward or downward to maintain the display module in the planar state or the curved state.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The hinge unit includes a first hinge frame, a second hinge frame, a third hinge frame, a first hinge portion, a second hinge portion, and the pair of stoppers, wherein the second hinge frame is hingedly connected to opposite sides of the first hinge frame through the first hinge portion, and The third hinge frames are hingedly connected to outer ends of the second hinge frames through the second hinge parts, respectively.

3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: The pair of stoppers are respectively provided at upper and lower sides of an outer end of the third hinge frame in a case where the display device is viewed from a rear side.

4. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising: Another pair of stoppers are respectively arranged at the second hinge frame.

5. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising: Bolts and nuts are provided in the first hinge part and the second hinge part, and a torque level is adjusted by adjusting surface friction between various types of components fastened between the bolts and the nuts.

6. The display device according to claim 3, wherein: A pair of upper and lower stoppers have a horizontally symmetrical structure, and The pair of stoppers disposed at the outer end of the third hinge frame on the right side and the pair of stoppers disposed outside the third hinge frame on the left side have a vertically symmetrical structure.

7. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The stopper is fastened to a fixing device formed over the rear surface of the display module.

8. The display device according to claim 2, wherein: A relief portion as a protruding structure is provided at a lower portion of the fixing portion of the stopper, wherein, in plan view, the relief portion has a circular shape, and The relief portion moves upward or downward according to the upward or downward movement of the fixing portion.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein: The outer ends of the third hinge frame are bent upward and downward to define a pair of supporting portions, and The supporting portion has a rectangular shape as a whole, and the first slot is formed in the supporting portion and has a shape elongated in a longitudinal direction.

10. The display device according to claim 9, wherein: A polymer plate is disposed over an upper portion of the support portion, and the stopper is disposed over an upper portion of the polymer plate.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein: The polymer plate has a rectangular shape, and the second slot is formed in the polymer plate and has a shape elongated in a longitudinal direction, wherein the second slot is positioned corresponding to the first slot, and Wherein, the size of the second slot is larger than that of the first slot.

12. The display device according to claim 11, wherein: circular first holes are provided in the polymer plate and are arranged at predetermined intervals in a longitudinal direction to define the second slots, wherein the second slot includes a plurality of first holes and a plurality of second holes disposed between the plurality of first holes, and Wherein, the width of the second hole is smaller than the width of the first hole.

13. The display device according to claim 12, wherein: In the case of implementing the curved display mode, in a predetermined curvature state or a specific curvature state, the relief portion is positioned in the first hole so that the relief portion is inserted and fixed into the first hole, and Wherein, when a planar display mode is implemented or the display module has a curvature between the specific curvatures, the relief portion is positioned in the second hole so that the relief portion is lifted upward and positioned on the polymer plate without being inserted and fixed into the second hole.

14. The display device according to claim 13, further comprising: a connecting rod attached to upper portions of the pair of stoppers in a direction in which the connecting rod crosses the pair of stoppers, Wherein, the connecting rod is attached to an upper portion of the fixing portion opposite to the relief portion.

15. The display device according to claim 14, further comprising: a plurality of protruding structures, the plurality of protruding structures protruding from the rear surface of the display module, Wherein, insertion holes are provided at two opposite ends of the connecting rod, and the protruding structure is inserted into the insertion holes.

16. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: The protruding structure is disposed on the rear surface of the display module and has a height that enables the protruding structure to penetrate the insertion hole, and Wherein, the plurality of protruding structures are arranged at intervals between the plurality of first holes.

17. The display device according to claim 15, wherein: In the case of implementing the curved display mode, the connecting rod also moves upward or downward together with the fixing portion of the stopper when the fixing portion of the stopper moves upward or downward, so that the protruding structure is inserted and fixed to the insertion hole of the connecting rod, and Wherein, in a case where the planar display mode is implemented or the display module has a curvature between specific curvatures, the connecting rod attached to the upper portion of the fixing portion is lifted upward and positioned between the protruding structures.

18. The display device according to claim 1, wherein: The lower side of the outer end of the hinge frame extends in the length direction and is bent twice, and the bent end constitutes the stopper.

19. The display device according to claim 18, wherein: A plurality of circular holes are provided in the rear surface of the display module at predetermined intervals or specific intervals, and Wherein, a relief portion as a protruding structure is arranged at a lower portion of the fixing portion of the stopper.

20. The display device according to claim 19, wherein: In the case of implementing the curved display mode, in a predetermined curvature state or a specific curvature state, the relief portion is positioned in the hole so that the relief portion is inserted and fixed into the hole, and Wherein, when a planar display mode is implemented or the display module has a curvature between the specific curvatures, the relief portion is positioned between the holes so that the relief portion is lifted upward and positioned on the rear surface of the display module without being inserted and fixed into the hole.

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